What Are the Causes and Treatment of Bad Breath?

If you’ve been struggling with bad breath, also known as halitosis, you’re not alone. Studies show that more than 50 percent of adults have dealt with not-so-fresh breath at one point. The good news is that simple lifestyle changes and a little help from Avalon Dental Care will get you on track to fresh breath and a confident smile!

What Are the Causes of Bad Breath?

Here are the common causes of bad breath:

• Poor Dental Hygiene: Most cases of halitosis result from poor oral hygiene practices. Without regular brushing and flossing, food particles left in the mouth promote bacteria growth on the gum line, between the teeth, and on the tongue. 
• Odor-Causing Foods: Certain foods, such as garlic and onions, can cause bad breath. Brushing, flossing, and mouthwash can help, but you’ll have to wait for these foods to pass through the body to eliminate the odor completely.
• Dry Mouth (Xerostomia): Saliva naturally cleans the mouth, so bad breath can develop if there’s a decrease in its production. Food debris and bacteria start breaking down and creating an unpleasant odor without sufficient saliva to flush them away. 
• Oral Health Problems: Persistent bad breath can result from gum (periodontal) disease, infections, sores, tooth decay, or cavities. It can also result from damaged restorations or ill-fitting dental appliances. 
• Smoking: Smoking is one of the leading causes of unpleasant breath. The harmful habit also increases the risk of gum disease, teeth staining, and the reduced ability to taste foods. 
• Diets Programs: Fasting and extremely low-carbohydrate diets can result in bad breath. That is because the body’s fats break down and produce chemicals called ketones which emit a strong odor in the mouth.
• Medical Conditions and Medications: Certain medical conditions, such as acid reflux, respiratory tract infections, postnasal drip, and tonsil stones, can result in bad breath. Moreover, a side effect of some medications is dry mouth, which also causes bad breath.

How Is Bad Breath Treated?

Here are some ways to prevent and treat bad breath:

• Oral Hygiene Practices: One of the best ways to combat bad breath is to maintain meticulous oral hygiene practices. Make sure to brush your teeth at least twice a day, floss daily, and rinse with an antimicrobial mouthwash. Don’t forget to clean your tongue and restorations, including dentures and bridges. 
• Lifestyle Changes: Cutting down on odor-causing foods and refraining from smoking helps prevent bad breath. If you have a dry mouth, drinking plenty of water will keep you hydrated, and chewing sugarless gum will stimulate saliva production.
• Professional Dental Treatment: If your bad breath persists, contact Avalon Dental Care for an appointment. We will determine and treat the underlying causes of your condition to restore your fresh and confident breath. If needed, we will refer you to your healthcare provider to rule out any medical concerns or medications that may be the cause of your bad breath.

Quality Dental Care in El Segundo and Lomita 

Visit your trusted team at Avalon Dental Care to learn more about eliminating bad breath. We recommend keeping up with your twice-a-year dental exams and cleanings to allow us to monitor your oral health and treat any concerns as they develop. You can always count on us for exceptional care and service! Call us and schedule your appointment today!